If an agency consistently offers cheap management fees it means that the property manager must manage more properties to bring in the same level of income to the business that they could earn if they charged a quality level fee. This type of business model focuses on the “quantity” of managements under their portfolio, and not the “quality” of the managements.

This added pressure on the property manager will eventually mean lower service levels and will lead to property manager burnout, which in turns lead to high turnover of property management staff; and in the long run, consistent poor service and an inexperienced team is a recipe for disaster. Some property managers may believe that giving cheap fees equals good service, but as the saying goes, you get what you pay for…

2. Ineffective Rental Arrears & Termination Procedures

Some property managers do not chase rental arrears until it’s really too late. This is a very serious concern, with many agencies waiting until the tenants are more than 14 days late before taking any enforcement action. A large number of tenants are terminated by eviction due to the property managers lack of communication during this rental arrears period, mainly because the Property Manager fears confrontation or doesn’t have enough staff support.

The lack of communication is what allows the tenants to get excessively behind in the rent, causing financial concern & unnecessary stress to everyone.

If your tenant has missed their regular payment, we contact them by SMS and email (when 3 days late), then we follow up in writing (by text message and also by email should they reach 7 days and also 9 days arrears status). At 13 days late we would issue a Notice Warning that a Termination is pending, and at 15 days in accordance with the legislation and after speaking with the landlord, a Notice of Termination can be served. Engaging with your tenant when they are only a few days behind ensures that the problem is addressed before it gets out of control.

3. Missing all the details creates lengthy delays

Many property managers do not pay attention to the little details because they claim, they don’t have enough time. Dotting every “i” and crossing every “t” is best practice. Every single request should be followed up and every single problem should be solved, regardless of how big or small the problem is. If it was reported, it is a problem, and that needs addressing, and in a timely manner.

5 STEPS TO BECOMING A PROFITABLE LANDLORD

Written by 44 Home, this book is vital reading for local property investors looking to maximise returns from their investment property. To download chapter one for FREE now click the button below. If would like a complimentary Profitable Landlord Strategy Review, get in touch today!